People are often concerned about the costs involved in getting a prosthesis. In Australia, there are a number of different funding schemes and it can be easy to get confused and to know what you are eligible for.

Request A Peer Support Visit

Learning that you are facing an amputation can be a frightening prospect. Coming to terms with the thought of surgery is not always easy and can lead to many questions and concerns. Access to a trained Peer Support Volunteer can be available at your request. Why not contact us today to request a visit, or speak to another amputee who has overcome the challenges of limb loss and can understand how you are feeling? Our national team of Volunteers are here to help you.

How Peer Support can help you.

When faced with the prospect of limb loss, it can be reassuring to discuss your concerns or fears with someone who has been there before; someone who has overcome the challenges of limb loss and adapted to day-to-day living.

In Australia, people undergo amputation every day, the most common reason being as a result of diabetes. Other causes for limb loss include: cancer, trauma accidents, infections, vascular disease and congenital differences. Limb loss does not discriminate and people of all cultures, genders, ages and differing socio-economic status can be affected.

You are not alone.

“As an amputee I know the despair a person feels when they lose a limb. Not only do they lose a limb, they lose their independence and mobility. Every amputee I have visited as a Volunteer has shown relief and positivity. It gives them a chance to talk to someone who knows what the future holds."

Peter, 66 years, lower limb amputee - Peer Support Volunteer

“Shortly after my amputation, I was introduced to a Peer Support Volunteer. This person was the single most important factor in my recovery. It was encouraging to hear his story of recovery and I felt that I could trust him more than any other health worker because of his own lived experience.”

Jack, 27 years, below knee amputee. Cancer TAS

“It's good to have someone to talk to who has been through a similar experience. It's a very difficult and hard to see how you'll ever have a normal life again. Talking to someone who has come through the experience of amputation is beneficial, and gives you something to work towards.”

Eric, 34 years, above knee amputee. Infection QLD

"When I lost my arm I didn't know what to expect. It was helpful speaking to someone who had gone down this road before me and could help with tips and ideas about managing at home. I was also relieved to know that if my health was okay then chances were that I would be able to drive again."

Gary, 43 years, upper limb amputee. Trauma - NSW

More than 8,000 lower limb amputations are performed each year in Australia; that's about one every hour!